Best pillow side — Side sleepers need taller, firmer pillows than back or stomach sleepers. Our team’s pick of the best pillows in Australia for side sleepers, by shoulder width and budget.
Hannah on our team is a confirmed side sleeper and has tested every pillow on the Australian market by sleeping on them for at least a week. Here are the ones that hold up.
Why side sleepers need a different pillow (Best pillow side)
Your shoulder lifts your head off the mattress when you sleep on your side — about 10–14 cm depending on your shoulder width. The pillow has to fill that gap so your spine stays straight. Too low and you wake with a sore neck. Too high and you wake with a sore neck. The window is narrow.
1. Tempur Original Neck Pillow — Best Overall
Dense memory foam, contoured to support the cervical curve, 11 cm at the head and 13 cm under the neck. Holds shape for years. Around $260. The most-recommended pillow in Australian physiotherapy clinics for a reason.
2. Ecosa Pillow — Best Adjustable
Three foam inserts let you dial in 9 cm, 11 cm or 13 cm. $145, 100-night trial. Buy the larger size if you have broad shoulders.
3. Sleeping Duck Custom Pillow — Best Hybrid
Memory-foam core with microfibre top layer, adjustable. $159. Slightly softer feel than the Ecosa.
4. Dunlopillo Therapeutic Latex — Best Latex
Naturally cooling and responsive — no slow rebound. Around $180. Holds firm support for a decade.
5. Koala Memory Foam — Best Cooling
Gel-infused memory foam, 11 cm contour. $125. Best for hot side sleepers in Brisbane and Perth.
How to size your pillow
| Shoulder width (across) | Pillow height |
|---|---|
| Narrow (under 40 cm) | 9–11 cm |
| Medium (40–48 cm) | 11–13 cm |
| Broad (48 cm+) | 13–15 cm |
Easy way to measure: lie on your side on a flat floor with your arm tucked. Have someone measure from the floor to the top of your shoulder. Pick a pillow within 1 cm of that height.
For independent guidance on sleep and wellbeing, the Sleep Health Foundation is a good starting point.
